TMS Therapy [fMRI-Guided] for Myasthenia Gravis

What is myasthenia gravis?

Myasthenia gravis is a chronic autoimmune neuromuscular condition in which the immune system produces antibodies that interfere with the communication between nerves and muscles.

This interruption reduces the ability of muscles to contract, leading to muscle weakness that often worsens with activity and improves with rest.

What causes myasthenia gravis?

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, myasthenia gravis occurs when antibodies block or destroy acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, preventing muscles from contracting normally.

Other possible myasthenia gravis causes include:

• Thymus gland abnormalities, including tumors or enlargement that may trigger antibody production.
• Genetic susceptibility and environmental influences that affect immune system regulation.

MG affects people of all ages but is most common in women under 40 and men over 60.

Common symptoms of myasthenia gravis

MG symptoms can appear suddenly or progress gradually and may vary in severity throughout the day. Typical signs include:

• Drooping eyelids (ptosis) or double vision.
• Difficulty speaking, chewing, or swallowing.
• Weakness in the arms, legs, or neck that worsens with activity.
• Shortness of breath if respiratory muscles are affected.

How is myasthenia gravis diagnosed?

MG diagnosis usually combines a thorough medical history with specialized testing:

• Neurological examination to evaluate reflexes, strength, and fatigue.
• Antibody blood tests to detect immune markers associated with MG.
• Electromyography (EMG) to measure electrical activity in muscles.
• Imaging of the chest (CT or MRI) to check for thymus abnormalities.

Conventional treatment options for myasthenia gravis

Although there is no cure for MG, several therapies can control symptoms and help maintain daily function, including:

• Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors to improve communication between nerves and muscles.
• Immunosuppressive medications to reduce abnormal antibody production.
• Corticosteroids to decrease inflammation and immune activity.
• Plasmapheresis or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) for severe flare-ups or myasthenic crises.
• Thymectomy, surgical removal of the thymus gland, when recommended.

TMS therapy and neuromodulation for myasthenia gravis

Even with conventional therapies, many people with MG continue to experience fatigue, mood changes, or cognitive fog.

fMRI-guided TMS therapy offers a non-invasive, drug-free option to support brain health and complement existing treatment plans.

How Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) works

TMS uses a specialized coil placed on the scalp to deliver gentle magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain involved in motor control, mood regulation, and cognitive processing.

At our clinic, advanced fMRI-based computational brain mapping pinpoints areas of disrupted neural activity, allowing us to guide treatment with exceptional accuracy.

TMS benefits for neuromuscular conditions

fMRI-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation offers a non-invasive way to support brain and nerve function in people living with neuromuscular disorders such as myasthenia gravis.

 By gently stimulating targeted brain regions, TMS can help:

• Enhance motor coordination: Encourages healthier communication between the brain and muscles to improve movement control.
• Reduce fatigue: Supports neural pathways involved in energy regulation, helping lessen day-to-day muscle tiredness.
• Improve mood and cognition: Promotes balanced brain activity that may ease anxiety, depression, or mental fog often associated with chronic neuromuscular disease.
• Support long-term neural health: TMS stimulates neuroplasticity, the brain’s natural ability to form new connections, which can help maintain function over time.

These benefits make fMRI-guided TMS a promising complement to standard medical treatments, especially for individuals seeking a drug-free, non-surgical therapy to help manage persistent symptoms.

What to expect during TMS therapy

Before starting treatment, it helps to know how each session works and what to expect from start to finish.

Initial consultation and evaluation

Your care begins with a detailed review of your medical history and MG symptoms, a neurological exam, and fMRI-based computational brain mapping to identify areas of disrupted activity and guide a personalized treatment plan.

TMS treatment schedule and duration

Most clients receive 20–40 sessions, scheduled three to five times per week over four to six weeks.

Each appointment lasts about 20–30 minutes, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward.

Patient comfort, monitoring, and safety

During each session, you’ll sit comfortably while a specialized coil delivers gentle magnetic pulses to the targeted brain regions.

Most people feel only a light tapping sensation on the scalp.

Our clinical team continuously monitors your progress and comfort, adjusting the plan as needed to ensure optimal results.

Is TMS therapy right for you?

fMRI-guided TMS therapy at Neurotherapeutix may be a good treatment option if you:

• Continue to experience fatigue, weakness, or mood changes despite standard MG treatments.
• Prefer a non-invasive, drug-free approach to complement existing therapies.
• Want a plan tailored to your unique brain activity patterns using advanced fMRI-based computational brain mapping.

Our specialists will review your medical history, current treatments, and imaging results to determine if TMS therapy is appropriate for your needs.

Start your customized MG treatment plan in NYC

If you’re ready to explore advanced, non-invasive care for myasthenia gravis, our Upper East Side clinic offers pioneering fMRI-guided TMS therapy alongside expert neurological care.

This patented approach is designed to improve motor function, reduce fatigue, and enhance overall quality of life.

Request an appointment or contact us today to begin your personalized treatment plan and take the next step toward long-term wellness.